Materials Needed
For this paper palm tree, you will need a pair of scissors, several pieces of green paper, brown paper, tape, and a pencil or pen. Depending on the size and height of the tree, you may want to supplement these materials with sturdier items such as dowels or other rods, glue, and a craft knife. To get started, you will also want to have a clear workspace and somewhere to lean the palm tree once the project is complete.
Cutting Out the Stems
To begin creating your paper palm tree, you will need to start by cutting out several green paper stems for your palm fronds. To do this, trace the silhouette of fronds onto the paper using a pencil. The shape of the fronds will depend on the type of palm you choose, so you may want to look at images of different palm trees to determine the right shape. Ensuring that you have cut out at least four to eight fronds, set them aside and move on to the next step.
Making the Trunk
The next step in crafting your paper palm tree is to create the trunk. To do this, begin by sketching a pencil outline onto the brown paper in a curved cylinder shape. This shape may vary based on the size of the palm tree you aim to create, so you may want to scale the size accordingly. Make sure to use enough paper to cover the entirety of the dowel or rod plus two extra inches.
Once you have drawn your trunk, cut it out and wrap it around the pole. Use some tape to hold it down and ensure it stays put. Alternatively, if using glue, you can apply a thin layer along the four edges of the trunk and let it dry for a few minutes.
Insulating the Pole
To ensure your pole doesn’t move around too much when the final palm tree is assembled, you may want to use some foam core or craft foam to give it a bit of extra stability and insulation. To do this, take a long piece of foam core or foam and roll it up around the rod until it is fully covered. Tape or glue it into place and set it aside to dry or cool.
Adding the Fronds
Now it’s time to start attaching the green stems to the trunk. To do this, start by curving the tops of each stem and gently bend them so they curl around the trunk. Make sure to vary the lengths and shapes of the fronds, as real palms are not all uniform in shape.
Once all the stems have been bent and manipulated into the correct shapes, it is time to start taping them into place onto the trunk. Use several small pieces of tape to attach each frond and to ensure it stays put. Apply some pressure onto the fronds to make sure they adhere properly.
Stabilising the Shape
If you would like to further stabilise the shape of your paper palm tree, you can use some heavy-duty tape or glue to affix the fronds to the pole. This will help prevent any fronds from falling off or shifting out of shape. For best results, be sure to apply the tape or glue at the base of each stem as well.
Making the Leaves
To complete your paper palm tree, you will want to add some foliage. To do this, take some string or thin paper and cut it into thin, 1/8″ strips. Once all the strips are cut, tape them onto the stems of the palm tree to give it a more realistic look. For an even more lifelike appearance, you can also use small pieces of green paper and glue them onto the fronds.
Finishing Touches
Once all the components of the paper palm tree have been put together, it’s time to add the finishing touches. To do this, use your scissors to trim any excess paper or tape at the poles. You can also add some decorations with beads or glitter, or use small pieces of twine to create a more authentic look. Once you have finished, move your paper palm tree to a stable area and enjoy your creation.
Adding Dimension
To make your paper palm tree look more lifelike, you may want to add some dimension. To do this, use a craft knife and carefully cut small slots or holes into the stems and trunk of the tree. Make sure you take your time to get the shape and size of the cuts just right. If necessary, use a bit of glue to further secure any pieces that may be loose.
Texturising the Palms
To give your paper palm tree a more natural look, you may want to give it some texture. To do this, use a pencil and carefully draw lines, striations, and other patterns onto the papery stems and trunk. Depending on the type of palm tree you are creating, you can refer to images of real palms for an idea of the shape of these lines and details.
Adding Enhancements
Finally, to enhance your paper palm tree even further, you can add some additional decorations. To give the palm an extra pop, you can attach small pieces of blue paper to look like the sky or add some small, colorful flowers to add a bit of life. To give the trunk an extra boost, you can use a bit of glitter or attach some colorful beads. Have fun and experiment to truly customize and personalize your paper palm tree.
